Smiles are never far from the faces of most cabin crew, while their light-hearted greetings and conversation keep atmosphere on-board airlines pleasant for passengers. From the moment a holidaymaker climbs up the steps of their aircraft, ready for fun and adventures overseas, they are greeted by an air hostess who checks their passport and wishes them well. Prior to take off, the cabin crew assist with everything from troublesome luggage and stiff seat belts and a full safety demonstration. During long and short-haul tourneys they then assist passengers with requests, serve all-important grub and take action during emergency situations of turbulence.

The team dressed in matching uniforms can often be seen discussing flight issues with one another, after the pilot has given a personal greeting to travellers.

They are spotted nattering while pushing the food trolleys as well as organising items in the cabin.

Yet a pilot and former airline employee has revealed there is one specific time on the route where all talking between staff – both pilots and flight attendants – is banned.

Amanda Twine has let slip it is when the aircraft is travelling below 10,00 – and guarantees passengers will not hear a peep from staff.

She revealed: “The flight attendants are not permitted to contact the pilots below 10,000 feet.

“The pilots are not even allowed to engage in general chit-chat between themselves during this period. Why? Short answer – for safety reasons.

“The most task intensive period for a pilot is during take-off and landing, and pretty much any time the aircraft is below 10,000 feet.

“This period in the flight requires the pilots to do complete checks, communicate with air traffic control, enter data into the flight computer and cross-check instruments.

“The last thing they need is the flight attendants calling them on the phone or their colleague asking them how their kids birthday party went on the weekend.”

She added: “There are of course procedures to follow in the event of an emergency that requires the flight attendants and crew to communicate during take-off or landing – although rare, this does happen.

“But as a general rule – flying the plane is the pilots’ number one priority.